News Summary

In Great Falls, community advocates are working hard to establish a high school baseball program. The Great Falls Advocates have raised nearly $32,000 towards their target of $101,000 by August 1st. Youth sports foster passion and teamwork, and supporters believe high school baseball will provide much-needed opportunities for local students. Despite financial challenges and logistical hurdles, community enthusiasm remains high as fundraising efforts continue. With over 500 signatures on a petition and support from local organizations, the dream of a high school baseball program in Great Falls is inching closer to reality.

Great Falls Community Rallying for High School Baseball Program

Great Falls is buzzing with excitement as local advocates work tirelessly to make high school baseball a reality for the community’s youth. The Great Falls Advocates for High School Baseball are on a mission to raise funds and program awareness, and so far, they have gathered nearly $32,000 towards their ambitious target of $101,000 by August 1st.

A Fondness for Baseball

At the heart of this initiative is a passion for baseball that often starts on the Little League fields, where children embark on their sporting journeys. One young talent, Teegan Gunter, began playing the game at just three years old. Teegan’s father, Dale Gunter, emphasizes how sports cultivate not only talent but also qualities like teamwork and passion. In fact, it’s through youth sports that Teegan met his best friend, Deighton Evenhus, and together they dream of donning high school jerseys in the near future.

Fundraising Efforts Underway

The advocacy group is focusing on various fundraising strategies, aiming to tap into the generous spirit of the community. The fundraising will be facilitated through the Great Falls Public Schools Foundation’s website, facilitating donations from residents who want to see their kids play the sport they love. If fundraising objectives are achieved, baseball could officially take the field as early as March 2026.

Presentations have recently been made to the school board regarding the logistics of launching a high school baseball program. The GFPS athletic director, Mike Henneberg, has shared details suggesting that high school baseball would provide essential playing opportunities currently unavailable to students, as options are mainly restricted to the American Legion program.

A shorter season structured around the school year would enable student-athletes to explore other sports during summer months. However, the community is also well aware of potential health concerns, especially regarding pitchers. Despite this, enthusiasm remains high, as surveys indicate significant interest from both students and parents.

Community Support and Interest

The support from local organizations, including minor league teams and youth programs, has been a vital push for the initiative. With startup costs estimated between $40,000 and $50,000 and annual operational costs for baseball programs expected to match, the pressure is on. Sadly, recent budget issues in GFPS have resulted in cuts totaling $10.4 million from 2008 to 2021, leading to a projected shortfall of $2.66 million, which complicates the introduction of new sports programs.

Community members are actively voicing their support, with over 500 signatures collected on a petition advocating for high school baseball in Great Falls. The conversations happening around town are full of optimism and ideas, including seeking private funding options similar to those employed in cities like Billings and Missoula, where baseball programs are already thriving.

Challenges Ahead

While excitement builds, there are still challenges to navigate, including field availability, transportation, umpire shortages, and unpredictable weather. The district has also agreed to consider high school baseball in its 2025-26 fiscal budget, making it essential for community members to continue their support and fundraising efforts.

As the community gears up for upcoming youth baseball tournaments in Libby, there’s a sense of pride in local talent. However, not all has been smooth sailing, as vandalism was recently reported at Don Olson Field, causing disruptions for the Great Falls Chargers youth teams. A police report is underway, with a $1,000 reward offered for information leading to the identification of those responsible.

The Future Looks Bright

With enthusiasm and dedication from the community, the dream for high school baseball in Great Falls continues to grow. As fundraising efforts ramp up and support surges, residents remain hopeful that their student-athletes will soon get to enjoy the game they cherish on a high school field. Each signature, donation, and meeting brings the community one step closer to turning this dream into reality.

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